KIND-HEARTED pupils at a Johnstone school are demonstrating the gift of giving by helping to change the lives of kids in Africa.

Members of Thorn Primary’s Rights Respecting group launched an appeal to support the Buccama Clinic, in Ethiopia, after the dad of one of the school’s teachers paid a visit earlier this year and found the shelves and cupboards were bare.

To help youngsters who attend the clinic, pupils at the Thorn Brae school are attempting to collect 160 pencil cases, filled with school equipment, as well as second-hand clothing such as t-shirts, shorts and skirts to send to Africa.

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Each pupil has been asked to donate one filled pencil case and one second-hand outfit to the cause.

William Clark, who visited the Ethiopian clinic for a month earlier this year, told The Gazette:

“I took many pictures of the school shelves that were empty but it was clear to see the children got an enormous amount of fun from singing and dancing.

“I am very proud that the children in Thorn Primary are taking on this project to help the school which is linked to the Buccama Clinic.

“It’s good to know that the children are helping a part of the world that many people have forgotten about.”

The Gazette:

Children in Ethiopia sent a message of friendship to youngsters at Thorn Primary School who are helping to make sure they get a good education

The appeal has already attracted plenty of support from pupils, parents and staff.

Workers at the Arnold Clark car dealership also did their bit by donating pencil cases made from recycled tyres.

Stephanie Hart, headteacher at Thorn Primary, said: “I am very proud of everyone’s involvement in the project. As well as developing an understanding of global citizenship, the Ethiopia appeal also provides an opportunity for the school community to demonstrate our values of respect, equity, success and teamwork.”

Donations will be accepted at the school office until January, with organisers especially keen to receive football strips for the African kids.

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The Rights Respecting School Awards recognise achievements in putting the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child into practice within schools.

Having recently been awarded the Bronze Rights Committed Award, the Thorn Primary pupils are now focusing on the Silver Rights Aware Award, which requires the school to develop an awareness of children around the world.